WVUH DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY PROGRAM PREFACE

Transcription

1 WVUH DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY PROGRAM PREFACE WVU Healthcare offers an 18-month, 40 hour-per week education program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. It is designed to provide students with the basic knowledge and principles necessary to perform sonographic procedures in the clinical setting. The program is hospital based and is accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in cooperation with the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). The essentials and guidelines for accreditation are available to students to read and may be found in the office of the Program Director. WVU Healthcare awards a certificate to each student who satisfactorily completes all courses of study and fulfills all clinical requirements of the program. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for several registry exams offered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. In addition, students are also eligible to sit for the certification exam in Sonography held by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. One stipulation beginning in January of 2015 is that for a student to be eligible to take the ARRT Sonography Exam, the student must hold an academic degree. Associate degree or higher will be mandatory. Students enrolled in the program are regarded as mature, responsible individuals seeking education in the field of ultrasound. They are not considered employees of the hospital or students of West Virginia University. The following information has been prepared to inform the students of both policies and procedures of the ultrasound facilities as well as the didactic and clinical requirements expected of them during this educational endeavor. 1

2 Table of Contents Mission Statement.3 General Information..4 Required Textbook List.6 Clock Hours Faculty Course Descriptions Clinical Procedures & Rotation Policy...16 Clinical Standards Policy Clinical Supervision Guidelines.19 Graduation Requirements 20 Pregnancy Policy Attendance Policy CAAHEP Guidelines Student Transfer Policy 44 Orientation Policy.45 Advanced Placement Policy.46 Admissions Policy Part-Time Student Policy.50 Attendance Documentation Policy 51 Trajecsys Report System

3 West Virginia University Healthcare School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Medical Director: Dr. Michael Cunningham Ultrasound Education Coordinator: Tavia G. DeFazio Mission Statement The Diagnostic Medical Sonography education program at West Virginia University Healthcare withholds a mission to develop entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers through comprehensive didactic and clinical education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. In addition, this program strives to provide the necessary skills for professional growth and career advancement in the imaging sciences. Through continued technological advancement and strong commitment to medical education, West Virginia University Healthcare provides the foundation on which students can cultivate and expand their imaging skills in the diagnostic medical sonography discipline. Goals 1. Students will demonstrate entry-level clinical competence in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. 2. Students will practice effective communication skills. 3. Students will employ critical thinking / problem solving skills. 4. Students will exhibit professional behavior. 5. Students will integrate professional growth and development practices. 3

4 Personal Time Off (PTO) Students are given a total of nine (9) days of Personal Time Off (PTO) during the 18 months they are enrolled in the program. This time is to be used for both personal reasons and in the event of an illness. Any time taken in excess of these (9) days must be made up. Vacation and Holidays Students are granted four weeks of vacation during the 18-month program. Vacation time is designated by the Education Coordinator. The first two weeks of vacation take place in December and January. The spring/summer break is held the week following the 2 nd semester end. A final week of vacation is taken in the fall of the student s final semester with the official date to be determined by the education coordinator. Outside Employment Part-time employment by the student cannot interfere with the Program. Students are expected to be available for all didactic and clinical education as required by program guidelines. Financial Aid Although WVUH Diagnostic Medical Education Program is fully accredited by CAAHEP, due to changes in financial aid guidelines it is not eligible for financial aid. Libraries Two libraries of reference books and periodicals are maintained: the Department of Radiology library and the WVU Medical Center library. Students also have access to textbooks in the ultrasound lab as well as the Education Coordinator s office. An official list of the textbooks and reference materials available can also be found in the Coordinator s office. Students have the privilege of using any of this material for their studies. All reference material must be checked out and returned on schedule. A lost book or reference must be replaced at the student s expense. A form for checking out any reference material can be obtained through the education coordinator. 5 days is the maximum for any reference material to be checked out of the office. 4

5 West Virginia University Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Student Handbook Section II Curriculum, Courses, and Instructors 5

6 WVU Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Textbook Ordering and Purchasing Policy Textbooks are selected based on recommendations from the Education Coordinator, Medical Director, Radiology Education Manager, and the Course Instructor. The following sources are utilized in textbook evaluation and selection. Radiologic Health Training Resources Catalog Curriculum Guide of Sonography Programs Publisher Advertisements Educational Seminars All textbooks are may be ordered through the WVU Bookstore, Medical Division B&N, located in the Health Sciences Center in Morgantown, West Virginia. All textbooks listed are mandatory. If you have any further questions in regards to the WVU Bookstore, including but not limited to the pricing of textbooks and general WVU bookstore questions, please contact Mr. Chuck Bowers at (304) Required Textbook List ) Title: Essentials of Ultrasounds Physics 6.) ULTRA P.A.S.S. Author: James A. Zagzebski Vascular Ultrasound Technology Workbook 1 st edition Lori Green, BA, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, RT (R) & Craig Sink, MA, RDCS, RVT 2.) Sonography: Introduction to Normal Structure and Function (3 rd Edition) Utilization: Abdomen. Small Parts, Ob-Gyn, Neurosonology Curry and Tempkin 3.) Sonography: Introduction to Normal Structure and Function Workbook and Lab Manual (3 rd Edition) Appleton & Lange's Review for the Utilization: Abdomen, Small Parts, OB-GYN, Neurosonology Ultrasonography Examination, 3rd edition Utilization: Abdomen, Small Parts, Ob-Gyn, 4.) Ultrasound Scanning: Principles and Protocols (3 rd Edition) Ultrasonography in Obstetrics and Gynecology Utilization: Scanning Techniques Utilization: OB-GYN Tempkin Callen; 5 th Edition 5.) Diagnostic Ultrasound Vol. 1 & 2. Utilization: Abdomen, Small parts, OB-GYN, & Neurosonology Rumack, Wilson, Charboneau; 3 rd Edition 6

7 WVU HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM DMS Course Total Clockhours Course Number Course Title Clock Hrs. SONT 100 Physics and Instrumentation 79 SONT 110 Abdominal Sonography 145 SONT 120 Obstetrical and Gynecological Sonography 194 SONT 130 Neurosonography 46 SONT 140 Introduction Into Sonography 10 SONT 150 Case Review 65 SONT 180 Medical Ethics and Law 4 SONT 190 ARDMS Exams Review 6 SONT 200 Cardiovascular Sonography 79 SONT 210 Breast Sonography 5 SONT 300 Applied Sonography 1803 CPR 8 Orientation 12 Total Didactic Hours (includes CPR and Orientation) = 653 Total Clinic Hours = 1803 Total Hours = 2456 Total Vacation Hours = 160 Total Holiday Hours = 80 7

8 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM DMS Course Clockhours Semester I Course Number Course Title Clock Hrs. SONT 110 Abdominal Sonography 88 SONT 120 Obstetrical and Gynecological Sonography 132 SONT 140 Introduction Into Sonography 10 SONT 150 Case Review 22 SONT 300 Applied Sonography w/scan Lab & P.G. Conf. 552 Orientation 12 Total Didactic Hours (listed courses & Orientation) = 264 Total Clinic Hours = 552 Total Hours Excluding vacation And holiday hours: = 816 Total Holiday Hours: Labor Day = 40 Thanksgiving Christmas New Year s Day Total Vacation Hours: = 80 8

9 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM DMS Course Clockhours Semester II Course Number Course Title Clock Hrs. SONT 100 Physics and Instrumentation 46 SONT 110 Abdominal Sonography 42 SONT 210 Breast Sonography(Included in ABD. HRS) 5 SONT 120 Obstetrical and Gynecological Sonography 46 SONT 130 Neurosonography 46 SONT 150 Case Review 24 SONT 200 Cardiovascular Sonography 46 SONT 300 Applied Sonography 577 Total Didactic Hours = 255 Total Clinic Hours = 577 Peri-Genetic Conf. Hrs. = 6 (Included in Clinic Hours) Total Hours excluding vacation And holiday hours. = 832 Total Vacation Hours = 0 (Vacation taken the week after this semester end, therefore time is included with the Semester III Vacation Hours) Total Holiday Hours: = 8 Memorial Day 9

10 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM DMS Course Clockhours Semester III Course Number Course Title Clock Hrs. SONT 100 Physics and Instrumentation 33 SONT 110 Abdominal Sonography 15 SONT 120 OB/GYN Sonography 16 SONT 150 Case Review 19 SONT 180 Medical Ethics and Law 4 SONT 190 ARDMS Exams Review 6 SONT 200 Cardiovascular Sonography 33 SONT 300 Applied Sonography 674 CPR 8 Total Didactic Hours (including CPR) = 134 (For GPA purposes, 126 is used) Total Clinic Hours = 674 Peri-Genetic Conf. Hrs. = 4 (Included in Clinic Hours) Total Hours excluding vacation And holiday hours: = 808 Total Vacation Hours = 80 Total Holiday Hours: July 4th Labor Day Thanksgiving = 32 10

11 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM Instructors and Courses (Faculty) Instructor Tavia G. DeFazio, BS, RDMS, RVT, RT(R) Ultrasound Education Coordinator / Program Director Courses SONT 300- Applied Sonography SONT 110- Abdominal Sonography SONT 120- OB/GYN Sonography SONT 140- Intro. Into Sonography SONT 130- Neurosonography SONT 150- Case Review & Critique SONT 180- Medical Ethics & Law SONT 190- ARDMS Exams Review SONT 100- Physics & Instrumentation Michael E. Cunningham, MD Radiologist-Ultrasound Section Chief Medical Advisor SONT 300- Applied Sonography Jaime Lancaster, RDMS, RT(R) Lead Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Clinical Instructor Paula Camden, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Clinical Instructor Ashley Trombley, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Brandi Reeder, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Cara Bevins, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Son ographer Clinical Instructor SONT 300- Applied Sonography SONT 300- Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography Candice Norris, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Son ographer Clinical Instructor Shauna Griffith, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Son ographer Clinical Instructor Diane Stofcheck RVT Lead Vascular Medical Sonographer Clinical Instructor/Didactic Instructor SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 200-Cardio/Vasc. Sonography 11

12 Carla Plum, RDMS, RT(R) Mammography/Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Clinical Instructor//Didactic Instructor Tammy Harbert, RDMS, RT(R) Mammography/Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Clinical Instructor Heather Hayhust, RDMS, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Obstetrics and Gynecology Amber Payton, RDMS, RVT, RT(R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Obstetrics and Gynecology SONT 210-Breast Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography SONT 300-Applied Sonography Jennifer Graham RDMS, RT (R) Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinical Instructor SONT 300- Applied Sonography 12

13 COURSE DESCRIPTION WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM SONT 100 Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation (Core Course) 79 clock hours (Semester 2 & 3) Provides the student with an in-depth study of principles governing ultrasound physics and instrumentations. Principles range from wave behavior on a molecular level to somatic effects, and from piezoelectric elements to computer memories. SONT 110 Abdominal Sonography (Core Course) 145 total clock hours (Semester 1, 2,& 3) Exposes the student to anatomy, physiology, pathology and scanning technique. Emphasis is placed on cross-sectional anatomy in conjunction with scanning technique. Pathology forms a major component of this course. SONT 120 Obstetrical and Gynecological Sonography (Core Course) 194 total clock hours (Semester 1,2,&3 ) A detailed examination of anatomy, physiology, pathology and scanning techniques, related to pregnancy and female fetal development is presented by correlating various parameters. SONT 130 Neurosonography (Core Course) 46 clock hours (Semester 2) Exposes the student to anatomy, physiology, pathology and scanning technique pertinent to the neonate brain. Emphasis is placed on normal and abnormal conditions of the brain. SONT 140 Introduction Into Sonography 10 Clock Hours (Semester 1) Introductory Course to familiarize the students to the ultrasound equipment including but not limited to the transducers, machine, and PACS. Course also provides the history of ultrasound and the basics of how ultrasound works. SONT 150 Case Review, Critique & Scanning Techniques 65 total clock hours (Semester 1,2, & 3) Consists of review of interesting case studies, along with critiquing the images. Scanning techniques and protocols are covered in lab setting. SONT 180 Medical Ethics and Law 4 clock hours (Semester 3) Consists of Professional Code of Conduct, basic law, and the principles of medical ethics for the sonographer. 13

14 SONT 190 ARDMS Exams Review 6 clock hours (Semester 3) Purpose of this course is to review material from Abdomen, OB-GYN, Neurosonography classes, as well as develop and enhance strategies in test taking for registry examinations. SONT 200 SONT 210 Cardiovascular Sonography 79 clock hours (Semester 2 & 3) Exposes the students to anatomy, physiology, pathology, and Scanning techniques used in adult and pediatric heart and vascular Examinations. Breast Sonography (Mini Course) 5 Clock Hours (Semester 2) Covers basic anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the breast which is taught by a registered diagnostic sonographer in the Breast Specialty. SONT 300 (Core Course) Applied Sonography 1803 total clock hours (Semester 1,2,&3) Applied sonography is designed for acquisition of practical experience in the ultrasound laboratory. Real-time scanners are utilized for this purpose. During the First Semester, a one hour per week scan lab is held in addition to the applied sonography. Program/Education Coordinator works with students on specific exams during this time. (Total Scan Lab Time = 24 Hours) CPR 8 clock hours (Semester 3) Basic Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation Procedures and Techniques 14

15 West Virginia University Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Student Handbook Section III Academic and Clinical Requirements 15

16 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM Clinical Procedure and Rotation Policy Clinical Rotations Each student will be assigned to a Clinical Instructor for a period of one/two weeks. In order to adhere to the guidelines by our accrediting body, CAAHEP, the program utilizes a 1:1 student to instructor ratio. The Clinical Instructor will be responsible for instructing the student in techniques and applications of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Responsibilities include but are not limited to providing demonstration of the imaging process, instrumentation, normal anatomy and pathology. The student will scan under close supervision of the instructor. As the student progresses and his or her skills and knowledge increase, the student will be responsible for obtaining an accurate patient history, producing a diagnostic sonographic study, and submitting an initial interpretation to the radiologist/sonologist. This entire process is monitored and supervised by the assigned Clinical Instructor. Upon completion of the diagnostic study, the radiologist may briefly scan the patient. This provides the student with input from the physician as well as the Clinical Instructor. Under NO circumstances are student sonographers to be utilized as staff sonographers. The Clinical Instructor always maintains primary responsibility for the patient and the examination. Weekly Evaluations Each week the Clinical Instructor will be required to evaluate the performance of the student that has been assigned to them. These evaluations will be completed through the Trajecsys TM system. Once the instructor completes the evaluation, the student will have access to review this evaluation online. Use of Scanning Lab Due to possible bio-effects, unsupervised use of ultrasound laboratory and the use of ultrasound students as scanning models are prohibited. Scanning practice may only take place when there is appropriate clinical supervision available. 16

17 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM Clinical Standards Policy The clinical grade is based upon the completion of Qualifying examinations, Competencies, Clinical Instructor Evaluations, and the Education Coordinator s evaluations. Below are the required examinations and the grading session in which they are due. Failure to complete the required number of competencies or qualifying examinations will result in a zero for the exam(s) not completed. The procedure will still be required in the following grading session. Competencies will not be required for the first semester (1 st & 2 nd grading sessions), however, there are required qualifying examinations. Each competency must be preceded by a successful qualifying examination. All examinations (qualifying and competencies) are required to be complete by the end of the 3 rd semester (6 th grading session) in order to GRADUATE. Clinical grading for each semester is as follows: 1 st semester: Qualifying Exams - 50%, Clinical Evaluations 15%, & Program Director s evaluation - 35% 2 nd semester: Competencies- 50%, Qualifying exams - 25%, clinical evaluations- 15%, Program Director s Evaluation- 10%. 3 rd semester: Competencies-50%, qualifying exams-25%, clinical evaluations-15%, Program Director s evaluation 10% To achieve clinical competency the student must successfully complete 22 qualifying exams and 17 competency examinations. The following outlines qualifying exams and competencies to be completed in each Grading Session: 1 st Semester 1 st Session: 4 Qualifying Exams / No Competencies 2 nd Session: 4 Qualifying Exams / No Competencies 2 nd Semester 3 rd Session: 5 Qualifying Exams / 3 Competencies 4 th Session: 5 Qualifying Exams / 4 Competencies 3 rd Semester 5 th Session: 4 Qualifying Exams / 5 Competencies 6 th Session: Qualifying Exams Completed / 5 Competencies Examination Type and Details Competency Evaluation: Objectives and Methodology In order to test and evaluate a student s progress in SONT 300 Applied Sonography, a competency/qualifying exam evaluation has been developed. This mechanism consists utilizing the Trajecsys Clinic System Online which contains twenty two clinical examinations that are performed in ultrasound. The student must perform a qualifying exam and a competency exam on the majority of the studies. Three of these exams are considered basic qualifying exams, and are to be completed in the 1 st grading session. These exams pertain to instrument familiarization and basic abdominal and obstetrical scanning techniques. 17

18 The student s ability to perform a diagnostic examination by recognizing and recording normal anatomy and pathology is evaluated. The student must be able to suggest a reasonable diagnosis and intelligently communicate his/her findings to the radiologist. The student can request a Competency evaluation on a particular area/organ after: 1. The lecture on the particular area/organ is complete. Student passed didactic exam on that particular section 2. The student has performed the procedure several times with an instructor. 3. The student feels confident in performing the procedure. 4. The student has successfully completed a qualifying exam on the procedure. Qualifying Examination Procedure: Each student must successfully pass a qualifying exam before attempting a competency. The qualifying examination forms are are based using Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory selections. If a student receives two unsatisfactory marks, regardless of the grade, this will be considered a, failed attempt. When the student has passed the qualifying examination, all of the attempts will be averaged together for the final qualifying examination grade. **Please Note: The Competency differs in that it will also consist of questions during and/or after the course of the exam. These will pertain to normal anatomy, scanning planes and techniques, relational anatomy, normal and abnormal sonographic appearance, and the presence or absence of pathology. Therefore, the student should prepare didactically as well as clinically. If the student answers three or more questions incorrectly, the competency will be marked as a hold and the student will be required to repeat the entire competency (including the imaging portion). If an evaluation is not requested within reasonable time, the Education Coordinator may designate a time for the competency evaluation to take place. The student must complete the required number of qualifying exams and competencies per grading session. Evaluations are based on a point system. Each Competency requires a minimum grade of 85% to receive a pass mark. Each qualifying exam requires a minimum grade of 78% to receive a pass mark. The evaluating instructor retains the right to hold a student if he/she concludes a critical error, even if the required score for the qualifying or competency was met. If a student is held two times on a competency, this will result in a loss of that particular study s qualifying examination. The student s grade for the qualifying examination will remain, however, the qualifying will still have to be performed and passed in order to reattempt the competency. On the reattempt of the competency, the previous competency scores will not be included. Once a student is marked as competent on a particular organ/area, it is the Student s Responsibility to maintain this competence. The education coordinator reserves the right to revoke any passed competency if deemed necessary. The Diagnostic Medical Sonography student must maintain a minimum overall Clinical Education (Applied Sonography) grade of 78% at the end of each semester. Each student will be formally counseled at mid-term and semester end, with regards to clinical progress. Informal counseling may take place at any time throughout the semester. It is still the student s responsibility to maintain awareness of his/her clinical grade. At semester end, if a student fails to achieve and maintain the required grade (78%) he/she will be dismissed from the Program. All decisions regarding clinical dismissal are final. The student does hold the right to Due Process.(This policy is located in the Student Handbook) (NOTE: Instructor, as mentioned above, is any person specified as a SONT 300 Applied Sonography Clinical Instructor. Responsibilities: A clinical instructor must be available to students whenever he or she is assigned to a clinical setting, provide appropriate clinical supervision, and be responsible for student clinical evaluation. Qualifications: Clinical instructors must have the appropriate credential for the concentration they are teaching in. 18

19 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM Guidelines for Clinical Supervision of DMS Students This policy serves as a guide for students and staff sonographers regarding student clinical supervision. A DMS student will perform diagnostic imaging studies under both direct and indirect supervision from a staff clinical instructor. Indirect supervision- The student will perform an imaging study with the assigned sonographer, both student and sonographer will scan the patient. The sonographer may not be present in the exam room for the entire length of the exam, however, the sonographer will be immediately available to assist the student. The sonographer is ultimately responsible for the exam. Direct supervision- The student will perform an imaging study with the assigned sonographer, both student and sonographer will scan the patient. The sonographer will be present in the exam room for the entire length of the exam. The sonographer will always be present to assist the student. The sonographer is ultimately responsible for the exam. A student is never to perform a clinical examination without either the direct or indirect supervision of their assigned sonographer. An entry level student will always perform clinical examinations under direct supervision from their assigned sonographer. As the student improves his/her knowledge ultrasound, anatomy, physiology, pathology, patho-physiology and clinical competency the clinical instruction will become more indirect to allow the student time to perfect their scanning skills and gain confidence. The assigned sonographer will always be immediately available and is always responsible for the exam in progress. Endo-Cavity exams (i.e. trans-vaginal / trans-rectal) must be performed under Direct Supervision from the staff sonographer. Under No Exception will a student sonographer be permitted to perform the following examinations under Indirect Supervision: OR Studies Portable/Mobile Exams Invasive Procedures Special Procedures 19

20 WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY EDUCATION PROGRAM Graduation Requirements 1. Achieve necessary requirements as outlined by the Academic and Clinical Standards polices. This includes all didactic and clinical grades as well as completion of clinical qualifying exams and competencies. 2. Achieve proficient use of sonographic imaging equipment and demonstrate knowledge of ultrasound instrumentation, including but not limited to acoustic physics, Doppler ultrasound, and other medical imaging principles. 3. Maintain satisfactory attendance to all classes and clinical rotations. 4. Use oral and written medical communication. 5. Provide quality patient care. 6. Recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate first aid and/or basic life support procedures. 7. Demonstrate knowledge of human physiology, pathology, patho-physiology, and systemic and sectional anatomy. 8. Integrate patient history and physical findings to determine appropriate area(s) of interest for obtaining a diagnostic examination. 9. Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement quality assurance programs, protocols, policies and procedures for general function and operation of the ultrasound department. 10. Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in optimal recording and analysis of ultrasound data. 11. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the interactions of sound and tissue. 12. Demonstrate current knowledge related to bio-effects of ultrasound imaging. 13. Exercise professional judgment and discretion in obtaining diagnostic information and correlating findings with physicians. 14. Exercise professional judgment and discretion in communication with patients, co-workers, and the public concerning the field of ultrasound. 15. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of related imaging, laboratory, and testing procedures and how they contribute to the clinical diagnosis of disease. 16. Identify sonographic representation of normal and abnormal anatomy. 17. Apply optimal scanning techniques and imaging for specific areas of interest. 18. Demonstrate knowledge of permanent image production methods, storage, and processing of both hard and soft copy images. 19. Actively appreciate the need for continuing education. 20. Develop a cooperative teamwork approach with other allied health professionals. 20

21 West Virginia University Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Student Handbook Section IV Program Polices 21

22 West Virginia University Healthcare Policy No: Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Effective: 12/1992 Revised: 1/2006 Pregnancy Policy It is the policy of the West Virginia University Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program to follow the steps outlined below, and provide two options to our students in the event that pregnancy should occur during the eighteen (18) month program. 1. Upon medical verification of her pregnant condition, disclosure of the said condition to program officials is the student s responsibility and is to be initiated voluntarily. Students have the right to refuse disclosure of medical information; however, in the event that a student chooses not to disclose information regarding pregnancy, the student is acknowledging that they are assuming all responsibility for their condition and the potential complications that may arise. 2. Upon notification by the student that a pregnant condition exists, the Education Coordinator will contact the Radiation Safety Officer to assess the student s likeliness of radiation exposure as well as the risks associated with radiation exposure to the fetus. Students working in ultrasound are not exposed to radiation producing equipment, however if the student or Radiation Safety Officer wishes a film badge will be issued to be worn at the level of the pelvis to monitor any possible fetal dose encountered while working in the Department of Radiology. 3. Upon medical verification that a pregnancy exists, and after consultation with the Radiation Safety Officer, the Education Coordinator will offer two options to the student. Option # 1 Choose Not to Disclose Information Regarding Pregnant Condition By choosing this option, the student implies acknowledgement that she has chosen to disregard the recommendations made by the Radiation Safety Officer and the program. In addition, she is assuming responsibility for all potential risks and related complications. No policy or performance exceptions can or will be implemented should the student choose this option. Option #2 - Leave of Absence during pregnancy. If the student so decides, she may elect to leave the Program under the following requirements: a. Upon accepting this option and leave the Program, she must notify the Education Coordinator immediately. b. The student shall re-enter at the beginning of the corresponding semester in which she left. (i.e., if the student left mid-way through the second semester she would be required to re-enter the program at the beginning of the second semester the following year). c. All didactic and clinical course work must be completed prior to graduation from the Program 22

23 Option # 3 - Remain in Program throughout pregnancy. If the student so decides, she may continue in the Program under the following requirements: a. The student shall imply all radiation safety practices as outlined by the Education Coordinator and the Radiation Safety Officer. b. Upon request, an exposure monitoring device will be issued by the Radiation Safety Officer. c. The student shall participate in all scheduled clinical rotation areas as assigned with no special provisions. 4. The Education Coordinator shall document the student's decision in regard to the two options described above. 5. The student shall complete and sign a form acknowledging receipt of information and associated documentation in regard to the pregnancy. All documentation shall be entered into the student's permanent personal file. 23

24 West Virginia University Healthcare Policy No: Radiologic Technology Education Programs Effective: 7/2000 Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Revised: 7/2000 Attendance Policy A student's daily attendance is vitally important in order for them to maintain satisfactory didactic and clinical performance. Students that miss exceptional amounts of clinic time will find it difficult to acquire the exams needed to fulfill their clinical education requirements. Students need to realize that poor attendance during their education can have a negative effect on their future. Employers tend to be wary of student applicants that have a record of excessive absenteeism. It is natural to relate absenteeism with a poor work ethic and a lack of commitment to the profession. Personal Time Off: (PTO) Student Sonographers will be allotted nine (9) personal days off (72 hours PTO) for the eighteen-month period. In addition, each semester will include one (1) week of leave, to be determined by the Program Director. Personal days off may be utilized for unscheduled absences (illness, personal emergency, etc.) and scheduled absences (job interviews, doctor appointments, etc.). Unscheduled absences: Call-in Procedure 1. It is the student s responsibility to notify the Program Director when calling to report off for illness or other personal emergencies. Notification must be received by the Program Official fifteen minutes before the beginning of the student s assigned shift. Failure to call a Program Official in a timely manner will result in the student receiving an unexcused absence for that day. Students are required to leave a message on the phone mail system if a Program Official is not present at the time of their call. 2. Students who call in for less than eight (8) hours on the day of a scheduled didactic course examination will have 75% of a personal day recorded by a Program Official. In the event that two (2) separate courses have examinations scheduled for the same day, 1.0 personal day will be recorded. 1. Students that miss consecutive days due to an extended illness will be charged only one (1) personal day, providing the student has a valid medical excuse from a physician stating the amount of time that the student is excused from the Program. 2. The provision does not apply to time missed due to illnesses or incapacitation related to "elective" procedures or surgeries." Prescheduled absences 1. Prescheduled absences shall not be granted during didactic course hours. Emergency situations requiring a prescheduled absence during didactic hours must be approved by the Program Director. 2. To receive approval for prescheduled absences, the student must fill out and submit a Personal Leave Request Form. This form shall be submitted to the Program Director or a Clinical Education Coordinator prior to the time the student intends to utilize the personal leave time. 24

25 Attendance Policy cont. Excessive Absenteeism This policy serves to identify the procedure and criteria implemented when a student exceeds their allotted nine personal days off (72 hours PTO) for the eighteen-month period. 1. Excessive absenteeism will not be tolerated. If a student exhausts their 9 allotted days, they will be subjected to the following disciplinary action. a. If the 9 allotted days are exhausted, the student will receive an oral warning and counseling regarding their attendance. b. If 2 additional days are missed, the student will receive a formal written warning regarding their position in the program. c. If 1 more additional day is missed, the student will receive a formal, final written warning and an unsatisfactory status on their final transcript. d. Any days absent that exceeds 13, will result in dismissal. 2. In the event that a student exceeds their allotted nine (9) days, their clinical education will be extended beyond graduation so that all clinical requirement s can be satisfied. However, the clinical education process cannot be extended beyond 5 working days after graduation. All absences over the allotted 9 days will be considered as unexcused absences. 3. In accordance with the Standards of an Accredited Educational Program in Radiologic Sciences, with regard to the maximum hours of clinical and didactic instruction, students will not be permitted to make-up their excessive missed time by extending their hours in clinic on a daily basis. Unexcused absences Unexcused absences are classified as the following: leaving the Hospital grounds without a Program officials permission, leaving your assigned clinical area without a Program Official or a staff technologists permission, failure to notify Program officials prior to your assigned shift of a unscheduled absence, absences that occur as a result of disciplinary action. (e.g. suspension). In the event that a student incurs an unexcused absence, the Disciplinary Action policy will be implemented. It is mandatory for all students to make-up, after graduation, any time missed as a result of an unexcused absence so that all clinical requirements can be satisfied. As with the excessive absenteeism policy, the clinical education process cannot be extended beyond 5 days after graduation for unexcused absences. Tardiness Policy Excessive tardiness will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. When students arrive for the day, they are required to follow the procedure outlined in the Attendance policy. Students are required to be in their assigned clinical or didactic area precisely at their designated starting time. Students should be aware that falsifying attendance records is grounds for immediate dismissal. The following policy governs tardiness. 1. Tardiness is considered as any arrival time that is one minute past the designated time of arrival. 2. Students are required to make-up any amount of time missed due to tardiness. Students have one (1) week from the day the tardiness occurred to make-up the time. Failure to make-up the missed time in a one (1) week period will prompt a program official to convert PTO into make-up time. Make-up time must be pre-approved by a program official or time will not be valid. 25

26 Tardiness Policy Cont. 3. Tardiness will be governed by the following limits and corresponding corrective actions: a. Upon the occurrence of three incidences of tardiness, the student will be issued an oral warning. b. Upon the occurrence of three additional incidences of tardiness (total of 6), the student will be issued a formal written warning. c. Upon the occurrence of three additional incidences of tardiness (total of 9), the student will be issued a second formal written warning. d. Upon the occurrence of three additional incidences of tardiness (total of 12), the student will be issued a third formal written warning which will result in their subsequent dismissal from the program. 4. Exceptions to this policy will be at the program official s discretion and will be limited to unforeseen events such as inclement weather. Funeral Leave Students will be given a maximum of three (3) days excused absence for deaths in their immediate family. Immediate family shall include: husband, wife, mother, father, brother, sister, mother-in-law, father-in-law, and grandparents. Exceptions to this policy may be granted only by the Program Director. Vacation and Holidays Students are granted one week of vacation during each semester enrolled in the Program. Vacations are tentatively scheduled as two weeks over Christmas/ New Year's, one week in June and the final week of vacation being held in the Fall. The final week in the fall is determined by the education coordinator. Students are granted seven (7) holidays per year. The following have been designated as student holidays: New Year's Day Memorial Day Independence Day (July 4th) Labor Day Thanksgiving Friday following Thanksgiving Christmas 26

27 West Virginia University Healthcare Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education Program Student Handbook Section VI 27

28 Diagnostic Medical Sonography Standards and Guidelines for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Essentials/Standards initially adopted in 1979; revised in 1987, 1996, and 2007 by the: American College of Cardiology Foundation American College of Radiology American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine American Society of Echocardiography American Society of Radiologic Technologists Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Society for Vascular Surgery Society for Vascular Ultrasound and Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredits programs upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS). These accreditation Standards are the minimum standards of quality used in accrediting programs that prepare individuals to enter the Diagnostic Medical Sonography profession. The accreditation Standards therefore constitute the minimum requirements to which an accredited program is held accountable. Standards are printed in regular typeface in outline form. Guidelines are printed in italic typeface in narrative form. Preamble The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the American College of Cardiology, American College of Radiology, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Society for Vascular Surgery, and Society for Vascular Ultrasound cooperate to establish, maintain and promote appropriate standards of quality for educational programs in diagnostic medical sonography and to provide recognition for educational programs that meet or exceed the minimum standards outlined in these accreditation Standards. Lists of accredited programs are published for the information of students, employers, educational institutions and agencies, and the public. These standards are to be used for the development, evaluation, and self-analysis of diagnostic medical sonography programs. On-site review teams assist in the evaluation of a program's relative compliance with the accreditation Standards. Description of Profession The profession of diagnostic medical sonography includes general sonography, cardiac sonography, vascular technology, and various subspecialties. The profession requires judgment and the ability to provide appropriate health care services. General sonographers, cardiac sonographers, and vascular technologists are highly skilled professionals qualified by education to provide patient services using diagnostic techniques under the supervision of a licensed doctor of medicine or osteopathy. The general sonographer, cardiac sonographer, and vascular technologist may provide this service in a variety of medical settings where the physician is responsible for the use and interpretation of appropriate procedures. General sonographers, cardiac sonographers, and vascular technologists assist physicians in gathering data necessary to reach diagnostic decisions. Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs Diagnostic Medical Sonography The general sonographer, cardiac sonographer, and vascular technologist are able to perform the following: Obtain, review, and integrate pertinent patient history and supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results; Perform appropriate procedures and record anatomic, pathologic, and/or physiologic data for interpretation by a physician; Record, analyze, and process diagnostic data and other pertinent observations made during the procedure for presentation to the interpreting physician; Exercise discretion and judgment in the performance of sonographic and/or other diagnostic services; 28

29 Demonstrate appropriate communication skills with patients and colleagues; Act in a professional and ethical manner; Provide patient education related to medical ultrasound and/or other diagnostic vascular techniques, and promote principles of good health. The three learning concentrations are: 1. General (Defined as abdomen, obstetric, gynecologic, superficial parts, and other appropriate areas) 2. Cardiac (adult and fetal) 3. Vascular I. Sponsorship A. Sponsoring Institution A sponsoring institution must be at least one of the following: 1. A post-secondary academic institution accredited by an institutional accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and authorized under applicable law or other acceptable authority to provide a post-secondary program which awards a minimum of a certificate at the completion of the program. 2. A hospital or medical center or branch of the United States Armed Forces, or other governmental educational or medical service that meets post-secondary educational institutional accreditation-equivalent standards. B. Consortium Sponsor 1. A consortium sponsor is an entity consisting of two or more members that exists for the purpose of operating an educational program. In such instances, at least one of the members of the consortium must meet the requirements of a sponsoring educational institution as described in I.A. 2. The responsibilities of each member of the consortium must be clearly documented as a formal affiliation agreement or memorandum of understanding, which includes governance and lines of authority. C. Responsibilities of Sponsor The Sponsor must assure that the provisions of these Standards are met. II. Program Goals A. Program Goals and Outcomes There must be a written statement of the program s goals and learning domains (cognitive, psychomotor, affective) consistent with and responsive to the demonstrated needs and expectations of the various communities of interest served by the educational program. The communities of interest that are served by the program include, but are not limited to, students, graduates, faculty, sponsor administration, employers, physicians, the public, and nationally accepted standards of roles and functions. Program-specific statements of goals and learning domains provide the basis for program planning, implementation, and evaluation. Such goals and learning domains must be compatible with both the mission of the sponsoring institution(s) and the expectations of the communities of interest. Goals and learning domains are based upon the substantiated needs of health care providers and employers, and the educational needs of the students served by the educational program. B. Appropriateness of Goals and Learning Domains The program must regularly assess its goals and learning domains. Program personnel must identify and respond to changes in the needs and/or expectations of its communities of interest. Diagnostic Medical Sonography An advisory committee, which is representative of these communities of interest, must be designated and charged with the responsibility of meeting at least annually, to assist program and sponsor personnel in formulating and periodically revising appropriate goals and learning domains, monitoring needs and expectations, and ensuring program responsiveness to change. C. Minimum Expectations The program must have the following goal(s) defining minimum expectations: "To prepare competent entrylevel general sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains" and/or "To prepare competent entry-level cardiac sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains" and/or "To prepare competent entry-level vascular technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains." Programs adopting educational goals beyond entry-level competence must clearly delineate this intent and provide evidence that all students have achieved the basic competencies prior to entry into the field. 29

30 III. Resources A. Type and Amount Program resources must be sufficient to ensure the achievement of the program s goals and outcomes. Resources include, but are not limited to: faculty, clerical/support staff, curriculum, finances, offices, classroom/laboratory facilities, ancillary student facilities, clinical affiliations, equipment/supplies, computer resources, instructional reference materials, and faculty/staff continuing education. 1. Support Staff a. Support staff should be available to provide counseling or referral for problems that may interfere with the student s progress through the program. Guidance should be available to assist students in understanding course content and in observing program policies, and practices. 2. Clinical Resources a. Maximum student enrollment should be commensurate with the volume and variety of sonographic procedures, equipment, and personnel available for educational purposes. The number of students assigned to the clinical affiliate/clinical education center should be determined by a student/clinical staff ratio not greater than one-to-one, and a student/work station ratio of not greater than one-to-one. b. Programs should provide students with a variety of care settings in which sonographic and/or other diagnostic vascular procedures are performed on in-patients and outpatients. These settings may include the following: Ambulatory care facilities, Emergency/trauma, Intensive/critical/coronary care, Surgery, Angiography/cardiac catheterization (1)Each general learning concentration affiliate or clinical education center should perform approximately 1500 completed patient examinations, including production of permanent records and reports, per year, per student equivalent. The overall volume of procedures in which students participate in throughout the program should include a minimum of 30% ob/gyn procedures and a minimum of 30% abdominal procedures. (2) Each cardiac learning concentration affiliate or clinical education center should perform approximately 800 completed patient examinations, including permanent records and reports, per year, per student equivalent. The overall volume of procedures in which students participate in throughout the program should be representative of the range of cardiac procedures. (3) Each vascular learning concentration affiliate or clinical education center should perform approximately 1000 completed patient examinations, representative of the range of vascular procedures, including permanent records and reports, per year, per student equivalent. The overall volume of procedures in which students participate in throughout the program should be representative of the range of non-invasive vascular procedures. A student equivalent is defined as equal to one full-time student for one year. Diagnostic Medical Sonography B. Personnel The sponsor must appoint sufficient faculty and staff with the necessary qualifications to perform the functions identified in documented job descriptions and to achieve the program s stated goals and outcomes. 1. Program Director a. Responsibilities The program director must be responsible for the structure as well as the daily operation of the program, including organization, administration, periodic review and evaluation, continued development, and general effectiveness of program curricula. The program director ensures a schedule of regular visits to all clinical affiliates/clinical education centers is maintained. The responsibilities of the program director must not be adversely affected by educationally unrelated functions. b. Qualifications The program director must possess, at a minimum, the following: (1) proficiency in curriculum development; (2) appropriate credential(s) specific to the concentration(s) offered; (3) the equivalent of two years full-time clinical experience as a general sonographer, cardiac sonographer, and/or vascular technologist; and (4) an academic degree, not lower than an associates degree, and at least equal to that for which the students in the program are being prepared. Program directors are encouraged to pursue advanced academic degrees. Educational skills may include the following: curriculum development, instructional methodologies, evaluation 30